Esteemed gospel artist Pastor Andile KaMajola launched the highly anticipated Journey of Psalms Gospel Event on Saturday at the iconic Durban ICC.
This marked a significant milestone in the preservation and celebration of gospel music and cultural heritage.
The centrepiece of the grand occasion was the launch of the hymn book, Journey of Psalms, Hymns, & Spiritual Songs. This remarkable collection features over 300 sacred songs.
KaMajola told Sunday World that it is his desire that generations to come should have something left for them to hold on to.
Songs written over the years
“They will know how their forefathers did it and know their musical journey and heritage; hence, the hymn book is called ‘Uhambo LwaMahubo’,” KaMajola said.
“These are songs I have written over the years, and they have been mostly loved by churches and communities regardless of their alignment to a particular religious grouping.”
The gospel star said he sees his hymn book being used in a movie made by Tyler Perry Studios. He said God has told him that it is what he desires and is working on doing.
“The book will be translated into 11 official languages in South Africa [including sign language, since we plan on releasing the book as an app at some point], and then we will proceed to translate it to Shona, which is the biggest vernacular in Africa, obviously with the English one being about placing it globally.”
He shared that the showbiz industry has influenced his career immensely, such as his name making it easier for him to be able to talk about something he has done for years.
“My personal journey has been a journey of understanding the diversity of our religious sector, which has helped.
“I now know that I am not necessarily writing for my circle within the religious community but overall, and I must appeal to all of them.”
Usher of the new sound
KaMajola sees the gospel industry as one that has already evolved in a number of ways, making reference to a new sound that has ushered in a new breed of worshippers who are bringing a new sound.
“I would like to encourage our people to be versatile consumers of music and expect new things all the time,” he said.
“What I can tell you is that it is a good sound, a good wave that is growing the industry to greater heights.
“I see Uhambo LwaMahubo [Journey of Psalms] paying a huge role as a pathfinder for and an usher of the new sound, which will be a ave for the next 50 to 100 years.”
